Colorectal cancer prevention

Weird. Strange. Odd. I admit that each of those words could describe my colleagues and me on any given day. We enjoy all aspects of science, including those areas of medicine that would disgust the average person. It fascinates us to watch open heart surgeries and marvel how the chest can be cracked open, heart valves replaced, and blocked vessels opened with stents. This awe inspiring procedure is just one of many that allow physicians to actually see the intricate details of the human body. A kid-like wonder is most likely the reason why most physicians probably look forward to their upcoming colonoscopies so that they may satisfy their own personal curiosities about their bodies. 

March is designated as colorectal cancer awareness month. Approximately 140,000 Americans are diagnosed with colon cancer every year and about 50,000 unfortunately die from it. Warning signs of colorectal cancer can be blatant, like rectal bleeding, or insidious like weakness and fatigue or gradual weight loss. Other symptoms include bloating, narrower than usual stools and a sensation of incomplete emptying. However, this cancer is also highly preventable if proper preventative screening and lifestyle modifications occur. 

Part of your digestive system is comprised of the small and large intestine. The rectum and colon make up part of the large intestine. Colorectal cancers occur when tumors develop along the lining of the large intestine. Both men and women are affected and the risk of this particular cancer increases after the age of 50. Smoking, eating a diet high in fat, family history, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and personal history of colon polyps are all risk factors for colorectal cancer. 

There are many common misconceptions about colon cancer.

Misconception #1

African-Americans are not affected by colon cancer.

Absolutely not true! Although the cause of the disparity is unknown, African American women and men are diagnosed with and die from colorectal cancer at higher rates than men and women of any other US racial and ethnic group per the American Cancer Society.

Misconception #2

There is no screening test for colorectal cancer.

False! Double contrast barium enema, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, or CT angiography-virtual colonoscopy are all tests that can detect polyps, potentially pre-cancerous lesions, in the colon.

Misconception #3

Prevention is not possible for colorectal cancer.

False!

If caught early, colorectal cancers can be prevented. If polyps are noted on the screening procedure and removed, the likelihood of developing cancer is low.

Other ways to reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer include:

• Limiting red meat and processed meat in your diet
• Maintaining a healthy weight throughout your life
• Exercising regularly
• Eating at least 2 ½ cups of fruits and vegetables daily-more is even better
• Choosing whole grains over refined grains
• Limiting the amount of alcohol to 1 drink per day for men and 2 drinks per day for women
• Never using tobacco in any form

Misconception #4

It does not matter if you get tested, you will die from colorectal cancer anyway.

Definitely NOT true!

Colorectal cancer is a highly treatable disease if caught early in the course of the cancer. If the cancer is found when it is small and before it has metastasized, it has a 90 percent 5-year survival rate. Sadly, many people are not being diagnosed in early stages because they are not getting tested.  Only 4/10 people are getting diagnosed early.

Misconception #5

The procedure is painful and I will have to be admitted to the hospital.

False!

Colonoscopies are performed on an outpatient basis. You are given an IV so that they you can receive medicine to help you relax and you may actually fall asleep. The procedure is not painful but patients in the past have described the sensation as mild discomfort in certain areas. The worst part of the procedure is the day before when you have to clean out your colon. If you do not follow the instructions carefully, your colon will not allow proper visualization and the procedure would then have to be repeated. 

Recommendations are in place for a reason: to hopefully prevent disease. Instead of asking your friends about what you should do regarding colorectal cancer prevention (your friends did not go to medical school or complete a residency), please speak to your trusted health professional. If you are interested in more information, visit www.medlineplus.gov.

Yours in Service,

Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D.

Assistant Professor

SLUCare Family Medicine

yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com